A particularly intense session unfolded within the National Assembly as Deputy Abdou Mbow took the floor, presenting a stark assessment of the nation’s condition. From the parliamentary podium, Mbow declared unequivocally, « there is a crisis in this country, » painting a concerning picture of the prevailing situation.
Parliamentary tensions escalate
During his address, Abdou Mbow specifically referenced the Customs administration and the Directorate of Financial Affairs (DAF), before proceeding to criticize what he described as practices that could severely jeopardize public finances. His remarks quickly ignited a fiery debate, highlighting deep-seated concerns within the legislative body.
The deputy notably asserted that « when former Prime Ministers permit themselves to utilize funds designated for Casamance for political objectives, this country is in peril. » These grave allegations, which Mbow did not elaborate upon further, immediately prompted an intervention from the President of the National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko.
On multiple occasions, President Sonko interjected, urging Mbow to « remain on topic » as the deputy pressed to continue his line of argument. The exchanges grew increasingly strained, underscoring the friction between the two prominent political figures.
Mbow then brought up a prior incident involving Deputy Guy Marius Sagna, contending that Sagna had similarly made statements exceeding the bounds of the subject under discussion in a previous intervention. « Guy Marius Sagna is a deputy. He spoke, he attacked the president, » Mbow argued, seeking to establish a precedent for his own broad commentary.
Ousmane Sonko once again interrupted Abdou Mbow, reiterating his demand for the deputy to adhere to the agenda. Nevertheless, the parliamentarian persisted, maintaining that Guy Marius Sagna had also « strayed from the subject » without facing similar constraints on his intervention.
« Therefore, I firmly state that, in this nation, it is crucial to recognize that we have a country in danger, » Abdou Mbow emphatically declared, reinforcing his central message despite the Speaker’s admonitions.
Sonko’s stern warning to deputy mbow
As the deputy’s persistence continued, the atmosphere grew even more charged. Ousmane Sonko then issued a clear warning: « Stay on topic or you will vacate the podium. » The President of the National Assembly added, « I do not wish for you to leave in the same manner as last time, » alluding to a previous incident involving the parliamentarian in the chamber, a moment that clearly resonated with those present.
Abdou Mbow, however, remained resolute, refusing to yield and maintaining his stance on the management of public funds. « We cannot divert our public funds, then come to the National Assembly seeking refuge. People will speak out about it, » he concluded, standing firm in his convictions amidst the heated parliamentary exchange.
